The Nigeria Hydrological Service Agency, or NIHSA, provided updates on the rising River Benue water levels over the weekend.
As of Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the agency stated that the water level had already reached flood levels.
As a result, the NIHSA cautioned that states and local governments must take immediate preventive steps to limit the impact of the impending flood.
“The water levels showed danger signs and looming devastation of flood that would hit states along the River Benue.
“NIHSA also stated that it would continue to keep Nigerians informed about the impending flood and advised them to take necessary precautions before the worst happened.
The statement read: “The water levels at our crucial sites around the Benue Basin as of Thursday, September 19, 2024; the rise is steady and regular. “As of Friday, September 20th, the water levels in our crucial stations along the River Benue Basin had reached flood levels.
Let Nigerians clean their canals, drains, and gutters. “On Saturday, September 21, 2024, water levels at the nation’s important stations along the River Benue steadily increased to flood levels. “The 12 flood-prone states are so warned to implement measures to contain or allow conveyance.
“We appeal to Nigerians to clear their canals, drainages and gutters to mitigate floods.”
In Essence
The alarm raised by the Nigeria Hydrological Service Agency (NIHSA) over the rising water levels of the River Benue is a critical warning that underscores the urgent need for proactive disaster management and flood prevention strategies.
With the river reaching flood levels, the threat to communities along the Benue Basin is imminent, putting lives, property, and livelihoods at significant risk.
The call by NIHSA for states and local governments to take preventive measures is timely, but it also reflects a larger issue of preparedness.
Flooding in Nigeria has been a recurring problem, often exacerbated by poor drainage systems, deforestation, and inadequate infrastructure. If not addressed with the urgency it requires, the looming flood could lead to devastation similar to past floods that have displaced thousands and caused widespread economic damage.
